Live Load/Unload
A live load or live unload is a freight appointment where the driver must wait on-site while the freight is loaded or unloaded, as opposed to a drop and hook arrangement. Wait times of 1–4 hours are common at busy distribution centers.
In Depth
Live loads are the norm at most shippers and receivers. The driver backs into a dock, gets assigned a door, and waits until the warehouse crew has finished loading or unloading the trailer. Because this time counts against a driver's 14-hour HOS window, extended waits are costly.
Detention pay kicks in after the free time period (usually 2 hours) expires. Drivers who work a lot of live-load accounts should track detention time carefully — even 3 or 4 detention payments per week at $75/hour add up to $1,000–$1,500/month in additional revenue.
When booking a load, ask the broker whether it is live or drop and hook. Live loads at known slow shippers should command a premium rate or explicit detention language in the rate confirmation.
Usage Example
Example: 'It was a live load — I backed in at 7 AM and they didn't finish loading me until 10:30. That's 1.5 hours of detention pay.'
Related Calculators
Related Terms
Drop and Hook
Drop and hook (D&H) is a freight arrangement where a driver drops an empty or loaded trailer at a facility and picks up a pre-loaded trailer, eliminating wait time at the dock.
Detention
Detention pay is compensation for time spent waiting at a shipper or receiver beyond the agreed free time, typically 2 hours. Standard detention rates range from $50–$100/hour.
Hours of Service (HOS)
Hours of Service (HOS) are FMCSA regulations that limit how long commercial drivers can drive and be on duty to prevent fatigued driving. Key limits: 11 hours driving, 14-hour on-duty window, 30-minute break after 8 hours, 60/70-hour cycle.
Rate Confirmation
A rate confirmation (rate con) is a document issued by a broker to a carrier that outlines the terms of a load: pickup and delivery locations, freight description, rate, accessorial rates (detention, TONU), and payment terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between live load and drop and hook?
Live load means you wait at the dock during loading/unloading. Drop and hook means you swap trailers without waiting.
Can I get detention pay on a live load?
Yes. After the free time expires (typically 2 hours), detention pay applies. Always have the rate written in your rate confirmation.